LLM Law
University College Cork offers an LLM (Master of Laws) program designed to provide adva...
BA Hons Economics
Cork
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA Hons Economics program at University College Cork (UCC) provides students with a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, principles, and applications. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, empirical analysis, and practical exercises, students explore topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic policy. The program equips students with the analytical tools, critical thinking skills, and quantitative techniques necessary to analyze economic phenomena, evaluate policy alternatives, and make informed decisions in a variety of contexts. With its focus on both theoretical rigor and practical relevance, the BA Hons Economics program prepares students for diverse career opportunities in economics, finance, public policy, and beyond.
Microeconomic Analysis: The program introduces students to microeconomic theory, which examines the behavior of individual consumers, firms, and markets. Students learn about supply and demand, market equilibrium, consumer choice, producer behavior, and market structures such as perfect competition, monopoly, and oligopoly. They explore how economic agents make decisions under conditions of scarcity, uncertainty, and imperfect information, and how these decisions shape market outcomes and resource allocation.
Macroeconomic Analysis: Students study macroeconomic theory, which focuses on the behavior of the economy as a whole. They examine topics such as national income accounting, economic growth, inflation, unemployment, monetary policy, fiscal policy, and international trade. Students analyze the determinants of aggregate economic variables such as gross domestic product (GDP), unemployment rate, and inflation rate, and explore the role of government intervention and policy in stabilizing the economy and promoting economic growth and stability.
Econometric Methods: The program provides students with training in econometric methods, which involves the application of statistical techniques to economic data. Students learn how to collect, organize, and analyze data using statistical software such as Stata, R, or Python. They study regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and model specification, and apply these techniques to estimate economic relationships, test economic theories, and evaluate policy interventions. Econometric methods enable students to conduct empirical research and to provide evidence-based analysis and recommendations in various economic contexts.
Applied Economics and Policy Analysis: Students apply economic theory and methods to real-world issues and policy challenges, such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, poverty, inequality, and globalization. They learn how to analyze the economic impact of policy interventions, assess their effectiveness, and recommend policy alternatives. Students develop skills in cost-benefit analysis, program evaluation, and policy design, and gain practical experience through case studies, research projects, and internships.
Professional Development and Communication Skills: The program emphasizes the development of professional skills and communication skills, including written and oral communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and presentation skills. Students learn how to communicate complex economic concepts and analysis effectively to diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public. They engage in group projects, debates, and simulations, and receive feedback from faculty and peers to enhance their professional competence and readiness for the workforce.
Career Preparation and Networking Opportunities: The program provides students with career guidance, networking opportunities, and support for internship placements and job searches. Students have access to career workshops, job fairs, and alumni networks, and receive personalized advice and mentoring from faculty and career advisors. They have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships or work placements with government agencies, research institutes, consulting firms, or financial institutions, and to build relationships with professionals in the field.
Location
Cork
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
€ 16400
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: € 50
Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs, applicants require a minimum academic score of 80-85% or above in their previous studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 or 6.5, with no individual band below 5.5.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90, with specific section requirements: Listening 20, Reading 20, Speaking 21, Writing 20.
- PTE: Overall score of 63, with no section below 59.
- DET: Overall score of 120, with a minimum of 110.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.
University College Cork (UCC) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are aimed at assisting students with tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs.
International Merit-Based Scholarships: UCC provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate or postgraduate programs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and may cover partial tuition fees or provide stipends.
Government and External Scholarships: International students may also be eligible for scholarships offered by their home governments, non-governmental organizations, or external funding bodies. UCC assists students by providing information and support in applying for these external scholarship opportunities.
Research Scholarships and Grants: For postgraduate research students, UCC offers various grants and scholarships to support research endeavors. These scholarships often cover tuition fees and provide additional stipends for living expenses.
Sports Scholarships: UCC recognizes talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and athletic pursuits. These scholarships assist students in balancing their sports with their studies.
Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Certain faculties or departments within UCC offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract exceptional students to particular programs and fields of study.
Need-Based Financial Aid: The university understands the financial challenges international students might face and offers need-based financial aid programs to assist students who demonstrate financial need.
The BA Hons Economics program at University College Cork provides graduates with a wide range of career opportunities in economics, finance, policy analysis, business consulting, data analytics, and academia. With its emphasis on analytical skills, critical thinking, and practical applications, the program equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and versatility to succeed in diverse and dynamic fields and to make meaningful contributions to society and the economy.
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Economist: Graduates of the BA Hons Economics program can pursue careers as economists in various sectors, including government agencies, financial institutions, consulting firms, and research organizations. Economists analyze economic data, conduct research, and provide insights into economic trends, policy implications, and business strategies. They may specialize in areas such as labor economics, environmental economics, health economics, or international trade, helping organizations make informed decisions and navigate economic challenges.
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Policy Analyst/Advisor: Graduates may work as policy analysts or advisors for government departments, think tanks, or nonprofit organizations, providing expertise on economic policy issues and contributing to the development and evaluation of public policies. Policy analysts assess the economic impact of policy proposals, conduct cost-benefit analysis, and provide recommendations to policymakers on issues such as taxation, healthcare, education, or environmental regulation. They play a crucial role in shaping public policy debates, promoting evidence-based policymaking, and addressing societal challenges.
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Financial Analyst/Consultant: Graduates can pursue careers in finance as financial analysts, investment analysts, or financial consultants for banks, investment firms, or corporate finance departments. Financial analysts evaluate investment opportunities, assess financial risks, and provide recommendations on asset allocation, portfolio management, and investment strategies. Financial consultants advise clients on financial planning, risk management, and investment decisions, helping them achieve their financial goals and optimize their financial performance.
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Data Analyst/Quantitative Analyst: Graduates with strong quantitative skills may transition into roles as data analysts or quantitative analysts, leveraging their expertise in economics and statistics to analyze large datasets, build predictive models, and solve complex business problems. Data analysts work in diverse industries such as technology, healthcare, or e-commerce, extracting insights from data to inform decision-making and strategy. Quantitative analysts develop mathematical models and algorithms to analyze financial markets, assess risk, and optimize investment strategies for financial institutions and hedge funds.
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Business Strategist/Management Consultant: Graduates may work as business strategists or management consultants, advising businesses on strategic planning, performance improvement, and organizational development. Business strategists analyze market trends, competitive dynamics, and industry forces to identify growth opportunities and develop business strategies. Management consultants assess organizational processes, recommend efficiency improvements, and provide strategic advice to enhance business performance and competitiveness. They may work for consulting firms, corporate strategy departments, or start-ups, helping businesses adapt to changing market conditions and achieve their strategic objectives.
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Market Researcher/Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as market researchers or market analysts for market research firms, consumer goods companies, or marketing agencies. Market researchers analyze consumer behavior, market trends, and competitive dynamics to help businesses understand market demand, identify target markets, and develop marketing strategies. They collect and analyze data on consumer preferences, purchase behavior, and brand perception, providing insights to guide product development, advertising campaigns, and market positioning strategies.
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Academic Researcher or Educator: Graduates interested in further study may pursue graduate studies in economics or related fields, leading to careers as academic researchers, professors, or educators. They may conduct original research, publish scholarly articles, and teach undergraduate or graduate courses in economics, econometrics, or applied research methods at universities, research institutes, or policy schools. Academic researchers contribute to advancing knowledge and understanding in economics, shaping public discourse, and training the next generation of economists and policy analysts.
